An exceptional novel on many levels. The sequel is better than Shelley’s original.
The first thing the reader should do is put out of his mind any preconceived notion of the Frankenstein monster of the movies. In this novel – and in Mary Shelley’s original – the creature is not a grunting illiterate. Here, he has a name: Franz P. Frankenstein. He is also an intellect on par with an Oxford Don. In both books, the creature got the “right” brain as Igor didn’t drop the correct container.
Kennedy picks up where Shelley’s book ended and follows a few threads as he fleshes out the story brilliantly. Originally the creature wanted a female companion. Victor Frankenstein’s breach of his promise to create one is what drove the monster on his murdering rampage and to Victor’s ultimate death.
This novel is a classic love story between two societal misfits. An eight foot creature who happens to be a genius and sensitive murderer falls in love with an abused woman who has her own serious and multiple physical challenges.
What is love? What is the nature of marriage? Important questions when considered from the point-of-view of Franz; a person with no childhood or puberty.
If you don’t want to read Mary Shelley’s brief novel, I’d recommend the 1994 movie directed and starring Kenneth Branagh. One of the screenwriters for “Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein” was Frank Darabont who wrote “The Shawshank Redemption.” To enjoy this book it is not necessary to do either or both as Kennedy covers the essential points in about the first ten pages.
Kennedy’s pace and plot is more suited to today’s modern novel – but in a remarkable accomplishment – some of the language is similar to Shelley’s style. I found Shelley’s work slow-going at times with its flowery and wordy style. In both novels, letters play an important role.
I won’t give away more of the plot, but suffice it to say that there are many dramatic and even cinematic chapters in the book. I’m looking forward to the movie!
The author acquired a deep knowledge of horses and carriages for the book and that was an impressive period detail.
And do not be put off by the fact that the book is self-published. As the author noted at page 152, there is a distinction between publishers and learned men. This novel is way better than what is on today’s best seller list. Recall Tom Clancy’s first novel, “Red October” and John Grisham’s first self-published book, “A Time to Kill.” I’ve read both and Kennedy’s is way better.
This book has my highest recommendation. It is an instant modern classic!
The Art of Twenty-First Century Wisdom: An Internet Oracle 